Qatar Rescues Late Draw Against Switzerland in Group B Opener

By Fernando Abarca

SANTA CLARA, California — The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off in the Bay Area on Saturday, and it did so with an unexpected result. Qatar salvaged a valuable 1-1 draw against Switzerland thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer.

What appeared to be a comfortable victory for the European side turned into a celebration for the Qataris, who found a way back in the dying moments to earn a historic point and keep their hopes of advancing to the next round alive.

Switzerland took control of the match from the opening minutes and broke the deadlock in the 17th minute when Breel Embolo converted from the penalty spot. The decision was upheld following a VAR review, though it sparked debate due to a possible offside in the buildup.

From that point on, Murat Yakin's side dominated much of the contest. Switzerland enjoyed the majority of possession, maintained constant attacking pressure, and created several opportunities to extend their lead, particularly in the closing stages. However, a lack of finishing quality and several timely saves from Qatar’s goalkeeper kept the Asian side within reach.

Just when it seemed all three points were heading Switzerland’s way, Qatar found its reward. In the 96th minute, Boualem Khoukhi rose inside the penalty area to head home a pinpoint cross from Homam Ahmed, beating goalkeeper Gregor Kobel and sending the Qatari supporters inside Santa Clara into celebration.

The draw was viewed as a significant result for Qatar. During its previous World Cup appearance as host of the 2022 tournament, the national team lost all three group-stage matches. Now, under head coach Julen Lopetegui, Qatar begins its 2026 World Cup campaign with a valuable point that could prove crucial in the race for qualification.

The match drew an official attendance of 67,966 spectators at Santa Clara Stadium, one of the Bay Area’s World Cup venues. While local interest appeared somewhat subdued throughout portions of the match, the atmosphere improved as the game progressed. High temperatures also forced multiple hydration breaks during the contest.

Following the opening round of matches, Group B is completely level after Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina also played to a draw in Toronto. All four teams sit on one point, leaving qualification wide open heading into the next round of fixtures.

Qatar will look to build on the momentum when it faces Canada in its next match, while Switzerland will aim to rediscover its finishing touch against Bosnia and Herzegovina in what could be a pivotal day in the race to advance from Group B.